The Hon. Jagath Vithana

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson, thank you for the opportunity to speak on this important Bill. Our country faced many crises and hardships; accusations of corruption and fraud followed each. We cannot dismiss that these circumstances contributed to our plight. The people expected Parliament to take steps against corruption and fraud. We long recognized the need for such a reform; though delayed, we welcome this Bill. It gives us an opportunity to regain public confidence as a Parliament acting against corruption.

¶ 02 Implementation is now your responsibility. Hidden funds in places like Uganda can now be pursued. I recall when President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, as MP, began probing around 400 files of corruption; he could not proceed then. Now is the time. If at least two or three are investigated monthly under this law, we can reduce foreign debt and become an exemplary Parliament.

¶ 03 Let me also highlight a recent malpractice. On the 20th, when we submitted nominations at the Kalutara District Secretariat, the period for objections was until 1.30 p.m. But nominations were displayed at 1.45 p.m., after time for objections. I protested and went to the Assistant Commissioner of Elections. There were no police officers present inside—only outside, to control the public. I lodged a complaint; I table a copy. No investigation has been done to date. This was an overturning of democracy in Kalutara. I urge an investigation. This is not a fault of the Government but of officials. Often officials stand above politicians in wrongdoing; catch the officials and then the politicians linked to them.

¶ 04 I have more to say but time is short. Our Chief Opposition Whip is not here to allocate more time. Hon. Deputy Chairperson, can you extend my time?